>>5655112“At 10,000 soldiers, we’re outnumbered quote badly.” Sylvain interjects, ignoring Dimitri’s ravings. “We’re only sitting at about 2,000 soldiers ourselves. Perhaps 2,200 now with the addition of the Blackwings.”
“Our troop quality should be far greater than theirs.” Felix says. “Most of the Empire’s experienced soldiers were taken out at Myrddin or are still stationed within Western Faerghus. Many of the troops under Edelgard should be fresh conscripts. We can more than make up for our numerical disadvantage. The ones we should be watching out for are House Bergliez. Gronder lies within their territory, and Leopold von Bergliez is considered to be the greatest general the Empire has. The troops under his command will present us the greatest difficulty.”
Bergliez? This must be Caspar’s father. Tales of his strength had reached you even back during your days at Castle Rusalka. He would be a formidable foe indeed.
“What of the others?” Sylvain asks. “Will the Knights of Seiros be partaking in this battle?”
An orange-haired knight answers Sylvain. You recall seeing this man back at Garreg Mach and believe that his name was Gilbert. “We’re still awaiting numbers on the Alliance’s forces. As for the Knights of Seiros…Lord Seteth has declined our offer to join forces at Gronder. He says that the Knights suffered heavy losses taking Myrddin and will require some time to recover.”
“Cowards.” Dimitri seethes. “To think that professor I’ve heard so much about would back out at a time like this. It matters not. We do not need her.”
“Our best bet at victory lies in dealing a fatal blow to the Empress.” Rodrigue says. “A protracted battle will only increase the chances of our downfall. Tend to your men and ensure that they are ready to fight. As we draw closer to Gronder and get a better view of the situation, I will call you all back to discuss our strategy. For now, you are dismissed.”
You exit the command tent alongside Corrine, who looks positively furious. You can hardly blame her. The way Dimitri spoke to you made it clear that he cares very little about your presence here and could possibly even intend to use your forces as cannon fodder.
